Any particular reason why the spelling "tantabus" is used, when she's obviously referring to the latin "tantibus" - nightmare?
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As pointed on the page, it's a Meaningful Name mix of "tantibus" and "Tantalus".
Also, everypony does make a point of clearly pronouncing the middle syllable with a short "a" rather than a short "i" or a mid-centric vowel; it's clear that "Tantabus" is the intended spelling.
Is Gratuitous French applicable for Rarity's dialogue? "Avant-garde" and "en garde" are both French terms, but they have also been brought into the English language as almost adopted words. Avant-garde is a term used in the fashion world for any clothes on the cutting edge, and en garde is well-known as a fencing term. Plus, the pseudo-pun she makes with the two terms is quite fitting.
I wonder if Luna's instant arrival as Spike sends his letter is a case of Instant Home Delivery, considering Tropes Are Flexible...
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I'm on the fence about that. My personal assumption of the scene was that Luna was already chasing after the Tantabus, knowing it escaped and that the Mane Six were the ones she last dreamed of. On the other hoof, she probably got the letter, read about the blue smoke, and rushed right to where they all were. I suppose Instand Home Delivery works, and Spike's letter delivery is most definitely it in reverse.
I see there's been a minor Edit War over whether Big Mac becomes an alicorn prince or princess. Perhaps simply saying he becomes an alicorn could be an acceptable compromise, with a note about how all previously depicted alicorns (including the one in the book in "Hearts and Hooves Day") have been princesses?