Help With Os9/ Os X

I have a G3 that I was trying to upgrade from OS 9.2 to OS X 3 (Panther).
Everytime I put the Install CD in, I got an error message that the "startup
disk was unable to select the install cd as the startup disk (-2)"

I tried to point the control panel startup disk to the cd, but although I
could see it, it wouldn't let me highlight it.

Online, I got advice to "create a "System Disk2" folder and copy OS X
Install CD tp it. Then, alledgelly, I could switch from OS 9 to OS X

Well, did that. Now machine boots to "Apple" screen and stays there. Try to
reboot system with Panther cd inside and hold "C: at bootup, but to no
avail.

How can I correct this, either by installing OSX or going back? Don't have
my original OS 9 disk, but even with it, will machine "see" it?

HELP!!

Thanks!

BTW,

If I use another "Panther" dvd that came with my Mac Mini, and hold down the
"C", it will start to boot to that, but get the message "Can't load bundled
software".

If I hold down "C" at reboot with standard "Panther" cd, nothing happens,
still get chromed apple and nothing else.

 

I checked the firmware update and it says that my firmware is up to date. So what should I do now?