Hardcore as in Hardcore Mode (but you keep your world). Become a powerful mage or get stuck as a chicken for the rest of your life.
https://github.com/asanetargoss/HardcoreAlchemy/wiki/Changelog-0.8.1
https://www.minecraftforum.net/forums/mapping-and-modding-java-edition/minecraft-mods/mod-packs/2900247-hardcore-alchemy-0-8-1-an-alchemists-gamble?comment=37
