In 1903 PD, Manning held the rank of Commander and was put on loan to the Navy of Masada. He was assigned to the battlecruiser MNS Thunder of God as Executive Officer. Manning, like many Havenites, resented the Masadan officers assigned to Thunder of God as advisers. He liked Captain Alfredo Yu, his commanding officer aboard Thunder of God. He had previously served with him, and was chosen for his position because he had managed to impress the captain.