I've put together a 'hardmode' mod for AQE primarily for myself but it seems like it is fairly balanced so I'm sharing it here.
NOTE: Only works with AQE version 1.01
Download mod
v1.9:
Mega
Read the readme.txt for installation info.
Changelog:
v1.9
Fixed stamina regen issue with attack cooldown introduced in 1.8 update(s) causing substantially less stamina regen than intented
Changed piston struggle timing to be more rewarding for accuracy
Changed monster ejaculation damage from combined 40% HP to a range from 40% - 80% combined determined from current escape struggle progress
Moved Attack stamina cooldown to only apply when damage is dealt