Cribbage scoring for one hand less starter card
If I read you correctly, you're describing a hand like 4H 4D 4S 7D.


4H 4D 7D - 15 2
4H 4S 7D - 15 4
4D 4S 7D - 15 6
4H 4D - pair (2 points)
4H 4S - pair (2 points)
4D 4S - pair (2 points)


You are indeed correct that this adds to 12 points. You are also correct that you can shortcut the pairs to 6 points as Pair Royal.