Explanation:

- The word "malady" refers to a disease or ailment. In a broader context, it can also metaphorically represent a problem within a system.

- Option 1: Illness

- An illness is a disease or period of sickness affecting the body or mind.

- It directly aligns with the primary meaning of malady.

- Correct Answer

- Option 2: Mischief

- Mischief generally means playful misbehavior or troublemaking, usually not harmful.

- It doesn't relate to sickness or ailments.

- Option 3: Wickedness

- Wickedness means morally wrong or evil behavior.

- This doesn’t align with the meaning of malady.

- Option 4: Disturbance

- Disturbance refers to an interruption or disruption.

- While it may relate to problems, it's not specific to an ailment.