Please describe the scenario. Placements location is equally as important as refinements.
Position 1 ninja will outspeed position 2-3-4 ninjas no matter what refinement amount.
Same applies to any position after
2 > 3-4
3 > 4.
Feel free to explain the scenario and I'll do my best to answer it.
Additionally, do remember Prompt > Non-Prompt skills as well. : P