So I guess the things we can take away from this exchange are:

1] Use credit, not debit, cards for internet/airline/etc. transactions

2] When booking a ticket with codeshares/partner carriers, get the various PNRs, and then check that the "other" airline(s) have recognized the ticket segments. (I always do this so that I can contact the other airlines and get seat assignments if possible). Don't assume that because the transaction "completed" on the website of the airline you are purchasing the ticket from that everything is hunky dory.

3] Don't shout.