It seems to me that "do what you will" here is taken as a statement of permission, but is also a challenge. Because "will" can mean to 'Desire, [or] wish for', but it can also mean (According to the OED) 'Denoting expression (usually authoritative) of a wish or intention: Determine, decree, ordain, enjoin, give order (that something be done). Imagine how different the Rede would sound if it said "do as you determine". Determining something requires judgment and consideration. You have to think critically, consider options, and decide what is best in any given situation. That is a lot more complicated than "do what you want to do".
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