Well, my Windows 10 says it is activated (using the number that the slmgr /ipk rejected) and not showing any complaints. And that was before I enrolled this computer in the ESU program. I also now see my newest system listed on my Microsoft account devices (just appeared this evening). So there might be something going on behind the scenes that I'm unaware of. It has happened in my relationship with Windows installs that I've had problems using a valid key and Microsoft support would give me a new one. At this point I'll stop searching any further as everything is working fine (activated fine using the "invalid" key using "Change product key", the device is now listed on my MS account, ESU enrollment is done). Off to watch old X-Files reruns ;-)
Thank you for your help :-)
R