The Creative Assembly announces a second chance is underway to score a beta key for the unsupported multiplayer mode they are creating for Empire: Total War. Those who own the game and are interested can register on this page. Here's word:

Shortly after Empire: Total War was released, we added in an unsupported multiplayer campaign beta. Not everyone was able to get hold of a key for this and the application process was eventually discontinued. In response to fan requests we are, for a limited time, offering the opportunity to apply for a key once more.

Empire: Total War’s multiplayer campaign beta is an unsupported release, and as such should not be considered a final released product. As such, we are unable to assist with technical support enquires related to the multiplayer beta.