create multiple partition from 1

this hhd has 1 xp partition, i need to install ubuntu and storage partition in it
i cannot delete the xp because this is a netbook and has no cd drive
so this is a special xp home edition and i do not want to touch it

can you create more partition from a partition that's in use? (without damaging data of course)

note, i cannot get gparted to work via usb, i've tried multiple verison and each has different loading problems

Install Ubuntu onto WinXP using wubi. It's a fail method, but viewing your scenario I can easily see that you are a failure-- so it doesn't matter.

Enjoy your life.