After awakening Zelda with the power of the full Triforce, Hyrule entered a time of peace. Most of Ganon's minions went into hiding. The Triforce was again split into three pieces: Power, Wisdom, and Courage. Power was stored deep within Hyrule Castle, while Wisdom went to Zelda and Courage went to Link. Link and Zelda were married, and they had a son who they named Link (the IV). Peace continued for a good 10 years.........
Then, an unseen assassin murdered the older Link in the night. The Triforce of Power was also stolen on the same night.........
Link was buried in a tomb in an island off the shore of Hyrule. Rumors began to spread that Ganon had returned. 10 days after the tragedy, Zelda herself was taken. The ever aging Impa told young Link the following:
"Ganon has likely returned. If you ever hope to save him then you must recover the Triforce of Courage, which has scattered across the island where your father's tomb is, waiting for a new bearer. You must also recover the Ocarina of Time, and the Master Sword. Hyrule is counting on you."