Everything got unplugged

filter type?

If your filter is a HOB type, the media probably had enough oxygen, but if it is a canister, then the lack of oxygen is more critical. I suspect it will all bounce back fast, though, it may have cost you a couple of days.

If you do that with fish in the tank, you will lose fish. I thought I'd restarted my Eheim Pro2 and let it run all night with no flow. 2/3 of the cardinals were dead by morning, even though the other Eheim 2213 filter was running fine. Lost some serpae tetras also, 4 of 5. Catfish were OK, kuhlies too, I think, can't count them all so I'm not really sure.

The name of the game with fishless cycling is patience, so I'm learning. I'm only into day four.

I hope you gave your friend a kick in the butt!

Don't get impatient

I've read that the cycle takes about 38 days, and that the nitrite part is about twice as long and twice as high as the ammonia part.

But, it varies a lot, depending on temp and water conditions and if you have bacteria from other tanks. So -- don't quote me on that, I'm just trying to give you a very rough idea on the time period.

yeah, the nitrite part is longer then the ammonia. Be patient though. Dont try to rush it.