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You're right about the "CD-Key" not being saved on the motherboard. It's similar to the BIOS, so it shouldn't cause any issues.
I don't feel confident about this. It wouldn't work since a motherboard I installed myself and manually added Windows isn't affected by any key on the board. Also, I dual booted Ubuntu. Essentially, what I'm saying is that the CD-Key isn't saved in the BIOS. Just because I'm starting to question myself, it's better to wait for someone else to help.
It isn't saved in the BIOS. The CD key needs to be on a sticker on your original case or the one that came with your motherboard. Without it, you can't activate Windows. Edit: If you purchased a Windows 8 installer CD, it should be included with the box.
Windows data isn't saved on your motherboard's BIOS. An OEM copy activates using its motherboard's UEID, combining this with your license key to form a valid activation string. You can also confirm the correct CD key by reading it from Windows with a tool like Microsoft Toolkit before reimaging.